Product description

A history of the development of Roman gardens from humble vegetable patches to the sophisticated formats seen at the height of the empire. Domestic, public, town and country gardens are covered, and archaeological research is used to illustrate the value of gardens to contemporary society.

Editorial reviews

The Romans never forgot that their ancestors had been farmers. Even their most sophisticated urban villas contain pictorial evidence of their keen love of horticulture, with delicate frescoes and mosaics of birds dipping bills into fountains, ornate pergolas, urns and exotic foliage. Farrar discusses every aspect of gardening in the Empire, including the variety of design, tools, waterworks and typical plants. With its many delightful illustrations this is a book for both history lovers and modern gardeners - there is even a suggested planting plan for creating your own Roman-style garden. (Kirkus UK)